Vehicle Safety Investigations
Active and concluded federal defect investigations — preliminary evaluations, engineering analyses, and inquiries that frequently escalate into large-scale recalls.
2009-2012 Audi A3 Diesel Fuel Injector Line Leakage Recall
An NHTSA investigation (PE11023) into 2009-2012 Audi A3 models with 2.0L TDI engines found a defect causing diesel fuel injector line #2 leakage. This led to a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 11V-490) to replace affected lines and install vibration dampers.
1997-1999 Audi A4 Power Brake Booster Vacuum Bypass Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted investigation RQ99008 into the 1997-1999 Audi A4 regarding potential issues with the power brake booster vacuum bypass. This investigation ultimately resulted in a recall to address the safety concern.
1996-1997 Audi A4 Ignition Switch Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation RQ00009, concerning the ignition switch in 1996-1997 Audi A4 vehicles, has been upgraded to a recall. This means a safety defect has been identified, and a remedy will be provided.
2004 Audi A4 Engine Stalling Fuel Pump Investigation Closed
NHTSA has closed its investigation PE08027 concerning engine stalling due to fuel pump failure in the 2004 Audi A4. The agency found a low incident rate and different causes compared to previous recalls, but will continue to monitor complaints.
2000 Audi A4 Brake Pedal Bracket Investigation
NHTSA initiated Preliminary Evaluation PE02008 to investigate potential issues with the brake and clutch pedal bracket in certain 1998-2001 Audi A4 and A6 vehicles. This investigation focused on the durability and safety implications of the component.
1996-2000 Audi A4 Braking in Wet Weather Investigation
NHTSA opened Preliminary Evaluation PE00016 to investigate reports of degraded braking performance in wet weather conditions on 1996-2000 Audi A4 models. This issue was specifically linked to the vehicle's electrical system. The investigation has since been closed.
1998-1999 Audi A4 / A6 Stuck-Open Throttle Investigation
NHTSA concluded its investigation (EA04017) into reports of stuck-open throttles in certain 1998-1999 Audi A4 and A6 vehicles. While a recall (04V-495) was issued for approximately 28,300 A6 vehicles, the failure rate for A4 models was significantly lower. Owners should still be aware of potential…
1996-2000 Audi A4 Degraded Braking in Wet Weather Investigation
NHTSA conducted an Engineering Analysis (EA00021) into 1996-2000 Audi A4 vehicles concerning reports of degraded braking performance when driving in wet weather. This investigation explored the potential safety risks and outcomes for owners.
2015-2020 Audi A3 Fuel Leak Investigation & Recall
NHTSA opened investigation RQ23007 into 2015-2020 Audi A3, S3, and RS3 models for fuel leaks caused by suction jet pump failure. This led to recall 24V-110, replacing the pump to prevent leaks, refueling spit back, refueling shutoff, and fuel odor.
2010 Audi A3 High Pressure Fuel Pump Investigation
NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE10034 to investigate High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures in 2010 Audi A3 TDI vehicles. These failures can cause engine stall or loss of power, with many incidents attributed to gasoline-contaminated diesel fuel. The investigation has been…
2009-2010 Audi A3/TT DSG Transmission Stall Investigation
NHTSA launched investigation PE09035 into 2009-2010 Audi A3 and TT vehicles equipped with Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmissions. The investigation focused on reports of sudden vehicle stalls and loss of motive power, linked to a potential defect in the DSG temperature sensor wiring harness.
2012 Audi A3 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure Investigation
NHTSA investigated high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures in 2012 Audi A3 TDI and other models (EA11003). The investigation found misfueling with gasoline to be a primary cause, with low stall rates and no reported crashes or injuries.